Touro Congregation Lights Menorah

In a ceremony that predates George Washington in Newport, Congregation Jeshuat Israel hosted a Chanukah Candle Lighting Party at the Levi Gale House on Dec. 21.

Speaking of generals and admirals, Admiral P. Gardner Howe, III, President of the U.S. Naval War College, and his wife were guests of honor at the Menorah lighting. The Admiral, another officer and Capt. Howard Goldman of the Naval Center (and a congregation member) were on hand for a private tour of Touro Synagogue prior to the party.

Rabbi Marc Mandel told about 50 guests that the event represented “the holiday of the spirit.” That Touro, the oldest synagogue in the United States, was formed in 1763, echoed the era of George Washington when he reiterated the themes of freedom of religion and freedom of open practice of any religion in America. –James Merolla